Equestrian camping near Evansville, Minnesota offers riders access to diverse terrain spanning western Minnesota's transition zone between prairie and deciduous forest. The area averages 25-30 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush summer riding conditions. Fall temperatures typically range from 45-65°F, making September and October popular months for trail riding when summer bugs have subsided.
What to do
Swimming in clear lakes: Lake Carlos State Park Campground features a swimming beach with designated swimming areas. "Good lake, had a great swimming beach. Our campsite wasn't private but there are some that are surrounded by trees and private," notes Stephanie H.
Winter activities: Campers can enjoy snowshoeing and skiing at Lake Carlos State Park Campground during winter months. "I stayed here with a few friends in the winter when the park was doing their lantern-lit snowshoe trail. They have 1 site (electric) available in the winter," shares Tori K.
Paddling options: Glacial Lakes State Park offers stand-up paddleboarding on its clear waters. One visitor mentioned, "Our favorite part of this trip was renting stand up paddle boards. The lake water was crystal clear and glass like calm."
Prairie hiking trails: Experience rolling grasslands at Glacial Lakes State Park Campground. A camper observed, "Beautiful park with rolling prairies. Oak Ridge campground is prettier, quieter, and more private than the Lower campground."
What campers like
Clear water quality: Pomme De Terre Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities in clean waters. A visitor commented, "Pretty nice campground with water and electric. Bathhouse, walking trails, fishing and beautiful lake views."
Fall colors: Maplewood State Park Campground transforms during autumn. "Lots of maple tree's red, orange colors in fall," shares Denise D., highlighting the scenic transformation that attracts horse riders each fall.
Wildlife viewing: Glacial Lakes State Park offers opportunities to spot native wildlife. "We saw beavers swimming; They were not fearful of campers," notes one reviewer, adding dimension to horseback riding experiences.
Lakeside camping spots: Sites at Lake Carlos provide direct lake access. "Sites are spacious with close access to the lake from any of the lower campground sites. Large beach area for swimming and pylons to tie up boats," states Jay H.
What you should know
Seasonal bug conditions: Prairie areas have significant insect activity in summer. "Site was a bit buggy, but very manageable with bug spray and a Thermacell. The bugs on the hiking trails were unrelenting even with lots of deet bug spray," warns a Glacial Lakes visitor.
Site privacy varies: Pomme De Terre Campground has a range of site layouts. "Some sites are a little difficult to get into but not impossible," mentions Marcy F., a consideration for those hauling horse trailers.
Flooding potential: Some campgrounds experience seasonal flooding. One camper at Pomme De Terre shared, "We stayed on the Pittsburgh side and found the campground amazing! Until it flooded. We were evacuated and moved to higher ground."
Winter availability: Limited sites remain open during winter months. Tori K. notes about Lake Carlos: "They have 1 site (electric) available in the winter. We had room for a truck bed camper and a pop-up clam ice fishing tent."
Tips for camping with families
Backpacking opportunities: Beers Hike-In Site offers an entry-level backpacking experience. "Great backpacking site to take your family. Take the Maplewood church road into the site. There is enough room to park 1 (maybe 2) vehicles. The walk is an easy walk," recommends Shawn A.
Nature center activities: Lake Carlos State Park provides educational programs. "Nature center is really good and all of the staff are great and friendly," shares Jay H., noting programs suitable for children learning about horse habitats.
Camper cabins: Multiple parks offer cabin options for families not ready for tent camping with horses. At Glacial Lakes, one visitor noted, "Had a great stay, everything was as expected with a camper cabin. Beautiful park with great trails and a beautiful lake!"
Tick prevention: Prairie locations require tick checks. "Due to the grass, there were many ticks, pets should be treated for ticks ahead of time," cautions Joe W., particularly important for families with pets and horse riders.
Tips from RVers
Winter RV options: Lake Carlos State Park Campground accommodates winter camping with proper preparation. Michele shares, "We are camping/glamping in. 30' fifth wheel. The sites here are spacious and cozy at the same time."
Dump station locations: At Glacial Lakes State Park, plan accordingly for water and waste. "The water fill and dump stations are on the opposite side of most campers which was the only downside. There was not water supply at the dump station to rinse out the tank," notes Amanda M.
Electric hookup availability: Maplewood State Park has designated areas for RVs with horses. "The sites with electrical hook up are less private, but it's a family camping site so it's very friendly," explains a camper, important for those traveling with horse trailers requiring power.
Seasonal closures: Bathroom facilities may close seasonally. "When we were visiting, the shower house was closed due to Covid, so no review of that," mentions Lisa H., suggesting RVers should be self-sufficient.
